Explainers
What's the difference between NAFD and SAIF?
Last updated 30 April 2026
NAFD and SAIF are the two main UK funeral director trade bodies. Most reputable independent firms belong to one or both. Membership signals adherence to a code of practice and access to dispute resolution — but neither replaces the legal protections set out by the CMA Order or the FCA’s rules on prepaid plans.
NAFD
The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) is the larger of the two by member count. It includes both family-owned independents and the major national groups such as Co-op Funeralcare, Dignity, and Funeral Partners. Members commit to the NAFD Code of Practice, which sets standards for facilities, staff training, transparency, and resolution of complaints.
SAIF
The Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) is exclusively for independent firms — chains and national groups are not eligible. Its code of practice covers the same broad ground as the NAFD’s, with an explicit emphasis on independent ownership.
Should it affect your choice?
Probably not by itself. Both bodies offer a complaints resolution route, and members must follow a code of practice that is broadly similar. More important inputs to a choice are the published Standardised Price List, how the firm communicates, whether it offers what your family needs (out-of-hours collection, viewing, specific religious arrangements), and any local recommendations.
Frequently asked questions
Are funeral directors required to be NAFD or SAIF members?
No. Membership of either body is voluntary. UK funeral directors are not licensed by a regulator in the way that, say, financial advisers are.
What's the difference between NAFD and SAIF in practice?
NAFD is open to all funeral directors including national chains; SAIF is independent-only. Both publish similar codes of practice and offer complaints schemes. The difference is mostly about who can join.
Where can I check if a firm is a member?
Both organisations publish member directories on their websites. Most firms also display NAFD or SAIF membership on their own website and on the Standardised Price List.
Methodology
Prices are taken from funeral directors’ published CMA Standardised Price Lists where available. Funeral Cost Index does not sell placement to funeral directors and does not rank providers by commission.
Find published prices near you
Search by postcode or browse cities to see funeral directors’ published Standardised Price Lists in your area.